Italian Sausage Pasta

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Italian sausage pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of savory sausage, rich tomato sauce, and al dente pasta creates a comforting meal in no time.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
  • 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild, hot, or a mix)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy version)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Make the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Add cream and sausage: If you’re making a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine.
  6. Toss with pasta: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and sausage mixture, tossing everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot!

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a side salad.

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